Valve

ABSTRACT

A valve includes a generally cylindrical housing including first and second end portions that are offset from each other along a longitudinal axis of the generally cylindrical housing. First and second inlet ports are arranged on one of said first or second end portions, and at least one outlet port is arranged on one of said first or second end portions. A disk is disposed in the generally cylindrical housing and is configured to independently control both mixing and flow rate of fluid flowing into at least one of the first and second inlet ports.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 13/689,895,filed Nov. 30, 2012, which is a divisional of U.S. Pat. No. 8,322,377B2, issued on Dec. 4, 2012, which claims priority to, and any otherbenefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/997,651,filed Oct. 4, 2007, and entitled “Treatise on flow through mixingvalves,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following relates to a valve.

BACKGROUND

Various valves to control the flow of water are known for residentialapplications such as kitchen or lavatory fixtures or bath/showerfixtures. Some valves have included more than one user interface orhandle to control temperature and flow. Other valves have included asingle handle to control temperature and flow. Still other valvesoperate with unified handle-spout combinations. Generally, unifiedhandle-spout combination valves require drastically different and highlydependent spout outlet positions relative to non-universal handle spoutcombination valves.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present application address the above-referenced mattersand others.

According to one aspect, a valve includes a generally cylindricalhousing including first and second end portions that are offset fromeach other along a longitudinal axis of the generally cylindricalhousing. First and second inlet ports are arranged on one of said firstor second end portions, and at least one outlet port is arranged on oneof said first or second end portions. A disk is disposed in thegenerally cylindrical housing and is configured to independently controlboth mixing and flow rate of fluid flowing into at least one of thefirst and second inlet ports.

According to another aspect, a valve includes a generally tubularhousing with two end portions, a first inlet port located on one of saidtwo end portions, a disk that controls flow of fluid entering said inletport and a peripheral linkage that communicates with said disk fromalong side the generally tubular housing axis to move said disk withinsaid housing; wherein said peripheral linkage translates the diskrelative to a longitudinal axis of the housing.

According to another aspect, a method includes independently controllingmixing and flow rate of fluid flowing in a longitudinal directionthrough an elongate generally cylindrical housing of a valve thatincludes at least two inlet ports on an end of the housing and at leastone outlet port on the same or another end of the housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above aspects and additional aspects, features and advantages willbecome readily apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodimentsthereof with reference to the attached drawings, wherein like referencenumerals typically denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1-5 are views according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve;

FIG. 7 is in part an exploded perspective end view of an exemplaryvalve;

FIG. 8 is a partial exploded perspective end view of an exemplaryauto-diverter valve;

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary valve of FIG.8;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve;

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary auto-divertervalve version of a rotary style valve modified version of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary coupling withthe exemplary valve of FIG. 12 with alternate exemplary handle sleevecontrol components;

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a faucet utilizing anexemplary valve and components of FIG. 13 in a retracted or pulled outor hand held mode;

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary coupling withthe exemplary valve of FIG. 12 with alternate exemplary handle sleevecontrol components;

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary configurationof FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary valve of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary coupling withthe exemplary valve of FIG. 17 with exemplary handle sleeve controlcomponents;

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve; and

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective end view of an exemplary valve.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a valve 10 that includes a body 12 and a cap 14.The body 12 includes a bottom 20 with first and second material freeregions or bores 16 c, 16 h formed therethrough. In this example, thefirst and second bores 16 c, 16 h allow fluid communication between thebody 12 and a pair of water supply lines from an external water source.A valve cartridge 26 is supported within valve body 12 and selectivelycontrols water supplied through the valve 10 and discharged from anoutlet port 28.

The body 12 includes the bottom portion 20 and first and second arms 30,32 integrally formed therewith. In the illustrated examples, the bottomportion 20 is generally tubularly or cylindrically shaped, with thefirst and second bores 16 c, 16 h being formed therethrough in agenerally symmetric relationship. The first and second arms 30, 32extend from the bottom portion 20, and each arm 30, 32 includes anarcuate surface 34 defining a portion of a cylindrical wall extendingaxially upward from bottom portion 20. In one instance, the first andsecond arms 30, 32 cooperate with the bottom portion 20 to define aninterstitial space 36 operable to receive the valve cartridge 26.

The cap 14 includes first and second generally cylindrical portions 38,40, an end portion 29 with central bore 42 formed therethrough, and twopair of flanges 44, 63. The first generally cylindrical portion 40 isdisposed adjacent the second generally cylindrical portion 38 and isconfigured to retain a seal 27 for sealing the central bore 42. Seal 27is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The flanges 44, 63 extend radially from thesecond cylindrical portion 38 and each pair defines a recess 48therebetween. The recesses 48 are operable to receive the first andsecond arms 30, 32 of the body 12. A pair of tabs 39 extends from thesecond generally cylindrical portion 38 in recesses 48 and engagesapertures 35 formed through the first and second arms 30, 32. The cap 14may be releasably coupled to the body 12. The cartridge 26 is disposedbetween the end portion 29 and the bottom portion 20, and is operable tocontrol an amount of fluid flowing through the first and second bores 16c, 16 h.

The illustrated valve 10 includes a rotatable and translatable disk 50,first stationary disk 54, optional second stationary disk 56, atemperature adjustment ring 60, and a flow adjustment ring 62. Therotatable and translatable disk 50 is generally cylindrically shaped andincludes a pair of ears 68 extending radially from an outer edgethereof. The rotatable and translatable disk 50 includes a bore 64.

The first stationary disk 54 includes a generally circular main body 78,flanges 80, and a pair of bores 82 c, 82 h. The bores 82 c, 82 h are ina symmetric relationship and generally include an arcuate shaped upperbore transforming into a circular shaped lower bore. The flanges 80extend from the main body 78 and form recesses 84 a therebetween. Therecesses 84 a engage pawls 18 and align the stationary disk 54 with thebottom portion 20 and prevent rotation therebetween. As such, therecesses 84 a may concurrently prevent rotation of the disk 54 andfacilitate aligning the cartridge 26 with the body 12. The secondstationary disk 56 includes recesses 84 b that engage pawls 18 b shownwith hidden lines through end portion 29. As such, the recesses 84 b mayconcurrently prevent rotation of the disk 56 and facilitate aligning thecartridge 26 with the end portion 29.

The temperature adjustment ring 60 and the flow adjustment ring 62include central bores 86, 83, respectively, and first and secondextensions 88, 90, respectively. The central bore 86 receives the firststationary disk 54. The temperature adjustment ring 60 is rotatablypositioned around the first stationary disk 54. The central bore 83 ofthe flow adjustment ring 62 receives the rotatable and translatable disk50 for translation relative to the temperature adjustment ring 60. Aninner surface of bore 83 includes a pair of slots 92 formed opposite oneanother, and the slots 92 receive the ears 68 of the rotatable andtranslatable disk 50. The engagement between the ears 68 and the slots92 may serve to selectively fix the rotatable and translatable disk 50for co-translation of the flow adjustment ring 62 and the rotatable andtranslatable disk 50 with respect to the temperature adjustment ring 60.

The temperature adjustment ring 60 and the flow adjustment ring 62 aremechanically linked together by a link 41. Link 41 includes a distal end47, a pair of bores 43 and a pair of arcuate grooves 45. Link 41receives first and second extensions 88 and 90 in bores 43 and arcuategrooves 45 respectively. Link 41 rotatively interfaces extensions 88 byreceiving extensions 88 in bores 43. Link 41 translatively interfacesextensions 90 by receiving extensions 90 in arcuate grooves 45. In oneinstance, arcuate grooves 45 only translate towards extensions 90 viarotative motion of link 41 about bores 43.

The temperature adjustment ring 60, and hence the rotatable andtranslatable disk 50 rotate about a cylindrical axis of the temperatureadjustment ring 60 when a force is applied to the link 41 about the axisof the generally cylindrical body of the bottom portion 20. Applying aforce to the link 41 along the axis of the generally cylindrical body ofthe bottom portion 20 rotates the link 41 about bores 43 and ultimatelyextensions 88 and translates the flow adjustment ring 62, and hence therotatable and translatable disk 50. The two perpendicular forces can beapplied to the link 41 at distal end 47 as well. Both forces result in arotation of link 41 relative to the generally cylindrical exemplaryvalve 10. Each respective force results in different movement of therotatable and translatable disk 50.

As shown, in one instance, the rotatable and translatable disk 50,stationary disks 54, 56, temperature adjustment ring 60, and flowadjustment ring 62 are stacked in a predetermined relationship relativeone another. For example, the first stationary disk 54 can be placedadjacent the bottom portion 20 with a gasket 94 disposed therebetween.The gasket 94 may effectively seal an area around the bores 16 c, 16 hof the bottom portion 20 and the bores 82 c, 82 h of the stationary disk54. The gasket 94 mitigates leakage. The first stationary disk 54 isaligned with the bottom portion 20 such that the bores 82 c, 82 h of thedisk 54 align with the bores 16 c, 16 h of the bottom portion 20. Theinteraction between the recesses 84 a and the pawls 18 facilitatesaligning the first disk 54 with the body 12 and the bores 82 c, 82 hwith the bores 16 c, 16 h.

The flow adjustment ring 62 is mechanically linked to the temperatureadjustment ring 60. The temperature adjustment ring 60 is rotativelycoupled to the bottom portion 20 and the flow adjustment ring 62 istranslatably coupled to the temperature adjustment ring 60. This can beachieved by placing the link 41 onto the extensions 88 and 90 tocorresponding bores 43 and 45 respectively. The first and secondextensions 88, 90 are coupled to the bottom portion 20 such that theyare free to rotate between the first and second arms 30, 32. A range ofmotion is defined between the first and second arms 30, 32, with a firstposition being established when either of the first extensions 88 or 90contacts the first arm 30 of the body 12, and a second position beingestablished when either of the second extensions 88 or 90 contacts thefirst arm 30 of the body 12. A second range of motion is defined byextensions 90 relative to extensions 88 where extensions 90 cantranslate a distance on either side of extensions 88 when the link 41 isrotated about the bores 43 rotatively receiving the extensions 88,guiding the extensions 90 in the arcuate grooves 45 toward either end ofthe arcuate grooves 45 so as to allow planar contact of the fixed disks54 and the rotatable and translatable disk 50.

The recesses 84 b of the disk 56 are aligned with the pawls 18 b of thecap 14. The disk 56 includes a bore 25 that is capable of aligning withthe bore 64 of the rotatable translatable disk 50. The cap 14 fixedlyengages the first and second arms 30, 32 of the body 12 to maintain therelationship between the rotatable and translatable disk 50, stationarydisks 54, 56, and adjustment rings 60, 62. The arms 30, 32 are receivedby the recess 48 of the cap 14, and the tabs 39 fixedly engage theapertures 35 formed in the first and second arms 30, 32. An optionalO-ring 95 is disposed between the cap 14 and the second stationary disk54, and facilitates preventing fluid from escaping therebetween, whichmay allow the fluid to be received through the central bore 42 of thecap 14. An optional tolerance spacer may be positioned between the cap14 and the second stationary disk 56.

FIGS. 2-4 illustrate the exemplary valve 10 in connection with anexemplary faucet 104. As shown, an exemplary coupling 100 is operable toconnect the valve 10 within a neck 110 of the exemplary faucet 104. Inone instance, the exemplary coupling 100 may be base mounted and includea housing 101 and a cap 103. The housing 101 is generally cylindrical inshape with a portion of the side walls removed to allow access to thevalve 10, including the extensions 88, 90. In one instance, the housing101 is similar to body 12. The cap 103 secures the body 12 within thehousing 101. A threaded interface 107 is disposed between the housing101 and the cap 103. A set of external threads 105 of the cap 103connect the coupling 100 within the faucet neck 110. The exemplary valve10 is adapted to a faucet 104 by substituting links 41 b along with akey positioning adapter 37 configured to link the link 41 b with apivotal control ring 33 through a rotating cuff 31 as shown in FIG. 3.FIG. 5 shows a coupling 100 and exemplary handle configuration endmounted to a faucet 104 b. In addition, a distal end 47 could extendthrough a modified rotating cuff 31 having a slot allowing for the axialmovement of the distal end relative to the generally cylindrical valvebody. Such a valve and cuff configuration could be either base mounted,wall mounted or spout end mounted as well. Other configuration, are alsocontemplated.

As can be appreciated from the above description, each disk 50, 54, 56may seal at the interface with the adjacent disk(s). As such, a hardmaterial valve disk or platen, e.g. ceramic, metal, synthetic or othersuitable material, or suitably coated material with adequate wear andperformance can be used. However, other types of valve disks, whichprovide sealing at the disk interface, may alternatively be utilized.

The exemplary valve 10 is operable to control the temperature of a flowof water entering the bottom portion 20 through bores 16 c and 16 h. Theexemplary valve 10 regulates the flow of hot and cold water entering thebores 16 c and 16 h respectively to provide a desired output temperatureand flow through the bore 42 of the cap 14. To control the flow of hotand cold water, the rotatable and translatable disk 50 is translatedacross the first fixed disk 54 from a first position to a secondposition to selectively align the bore 64 with the bores 82 c and 82 h,which are aligned with bores 16 c, 16 h of the bottom portion 20.Applying a force to the link 41 along the generally cylindrical valveaxis causes arcuate grooves 45, a groove locus example, to rotaterelative to extensions 88, thereby resulting in translation ofextensions 90, flow control ring 62 and therefore the rotatabletranslatable disk 50 allowing for a no flow condition transitioningtoward a maximum flow condition or a maximum flow conditiontransitioning toward a no flow condition depending on the axialdirection of the force.

To allow a flow of cold water to reach the outlet bore 42, whilemaintaining the maximum flow condition, the temperature adjustment ring60 is rotated generally from the first position to the second positionby applying a force to the link 41 and, thereby, an axial rotative forceabout the generally cylindrical valve axis. Rotation of the temperatureadjustment ring 60 causes concurrent rotation of the rotatable andtranslatable disk 50 about the generally cylindrical axis of the valve,whereby sufficient rotation of the rotatable and translatable disk 50causes the bore 64 to align with the first bore 16 c of the bottomportion 20 and more specifically with the bore 82 c, thereby allowing amaximum flow of cold water to enter the valve body 12 and to flow to theoutlet bore 42.

As the first extensions 88, 90 rotate from the first position to a midposition; the maximum flow of cold water transitions to a maximum flowof mixed water through the bore 64 and to flow to the outlet bore 42.The maximum flow of mixed water results from the maximum flowtranslation position of the rotatable and translatable disk 50 bore 64overlapping both 16 c and 16 h, for example 82 c and 82 h in equalamounts. As the first extensions 88, 90 rotate from the mid position toa second position; the maximum flow of mixed water transitions to amaximum flow of hot water through the bore 64 and to flow to the outletbore 42.

In the foregoing description, it should be understood that the flow ofwater entering through the first and second bores 16 c, 16 h ispermitted to flow through the bores 82 c, 82 h formed in the stationarydisk 54, and the bore 64 is independently adjusted for flow andtemperature depending on whether a force is applied along the generallycylindrical valve axis or about the generally cylindrical valve axis inrelationship to link 41. In this regard, the translation or rotation ofthe rotatable translatable disk 50 provides independent control foreither flow or temperature via movement of peripheral or external link41.

FIG. 6 illustrates an alternate exemplary embodiment. An exemplary valve10 a includes similar components as the exemplary valve 10. In theexemplary embodiment, a flow adjustment ring 62 a is configured toinclude the central bore 42 a and the outlet port 28 a, which isoperable to conduct the flow rate at which the water is allowed to flowthrough the body 12. The O-ring 95 seals the rotatable translatable diskto the flow adjustment ring 62 a. A bearing 56 b provides an optionallubricious interface between the flow adjustment ring 62 a and the cap14 b. The exemplary valve 10 a and 10 can be adapted to a proximatespout end mounted valve coupling as shown in FIGS. 5 and 14.Alternately, the exemplary valve 10 a can be adapted to be a basemounted coupling with the addition of an adapter along with a preferablyflexible and possibly partly spiral shaped tubular fluid carrying memberwhere the use of such components may be pivotally and rotationallyaccommodating to an outlet end that may or may not accommodate movement.A base mounted approach with such an adaptive arrangement may beconfigured to have similar appearance as shown in FIG. 4. With variousattachments, the optionally threaded end of central bore 42 a can beadapted to be used in different faucets. Other configuration, are alsocontemplated.

With reference to FIGS. 1-6, other example of the valves 10 and 10 a arecontemplated. For example, the valve 10, 10 a can be operable with theaddition of outlet 61 a in bottom portion 20 and outlet 61 b in fixeddisk 54. The couplings 100 can be configured to include an outlet forthe other axially offset end portion operable to conduct the flow rateat which the water is allowed to flow back out of the bottom portion 20whereby both axially offset end portions of the valves have outlets.

With reference to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, another exemplary embodiment isillustrated. The valve 10 b includes similar components as the valve 10a. A flow adjustment ring 62 b is configured to include a bore 42 b, achannel 42 c, a channel 420 including a configuration with diverter 59and optional retaining sleeve 58 and outlet port 28 b, operable toconduct the flow rate at which the water is allowed to flow through thevalve body 12. Rotatable and translatable disk 50 b includes a bore 65,which can carry outlet flow to an outlet 61 a when diverter 59 operatesto send flow in that direction. The bore 65 is surrounded by an optionalseal 23 that may mitigate leakage. The diverter 59 functions in similarmanner to numerous diverters used in kitchen faucets that also have aside spray. The activation of such side sprays cause the diverter 59 todivert flow from the faucet outlet or in this case outlet port 28 btoward the side spray or in this case any connection that is fluidlyconnected to outlet 61 a. A more compact configuration can be achievedby using different sized diverters.

The diverter 59 in the disclosed examples has a pair of diametric and apair of face seals and the diverter 59 can be alternately assembled todivert in either direction and therefore accommodate different desiredfunctionality. As shown in FIG. 9, fluid entering bore 64 b travels to aperipheral location about the diverter 59 and then can be alternatelydiverted toward either channel 42 c, 420 or outlet 61 a, 28 b directiondepending on the orientation of the diverter 59 and activation of thediverted side of the flow system. The temperature adjustment ring 60 dcan be removed from the valve and instead can be externally mounted to areduced sized valve diameter. Service kitchen faucets with additionalpull down sprayers, which are typically shrouded with a coiled spring,may be configured to utilize a similar exemplary embodiment. Thedisclosed valves can be used in all areas of household use in additionto other areas. The use of a planar disk valve with an integrateddiverter 59 does not have to be a flow through valve or mixing valve.For example, the diverter 59 can be positioned proximate one endcommunicating with an incoming fluid stream and two fluid channels anddivert the fluid stream towards either channel. Other configuration, arealso contemplated.

See FIG. 8 for the following description utilizing alternatelyreferenced component names. By minimizing a distance between a resistivemember 90 and a fulcrum 88 along a lever 41, while increasing ormaintaining a second distance between an applied movement force at 47and the fulcrum 88 along a lever 41, provides for improved mechanicaladvantage. The location of the groove locus or arcuate grooves 45 are inclose proximity to the fulcrum or a rotatively mountable extension 88 soas to ultimately minimize the distance from a resistive force to thefulcrum.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example. An exemplary valve 10 d includessimilar components as the valve 10. A flow adjustment ring 62 d isconfigured to include a threaded extension 90 d, side walls 53, and atemperature adjustment ring 60 d is configured to include an extension88 d having a flange slot 51, a positioning arch 57 and guide walls 52.Threaded extension 90 d threadedly engages rotational threaded flangemember 55 to the flow adjustment ring 62 d, where the flanged edge offlange member 55 is rotatably fitted to flange slot 51. While flangemember 55 rotates relative to the temperature adjustment ring 60 d thereis not translation of flange member 55 relative to temperatureadjustment ring 60 d. The arrangement of components 55, 62 d and 60 dalong with the moveably engaged side walls 53 and guide walls 52 allowfor translation and rotation of the rotatable and translatable disk 50d. The rotatable and translatable disk 50 d is received by bore 83 d ofthe flow adjustment ring 62 d. The rotational threaded flange member 55cannot rotate about the generally cylindrical valve axis relative to thetemperature adjustment ring since it is rotatively engaged withpositioning arch 57. As such, at a given rotational position of theflange member 55, there is no change in flow rate when the temperatureadjustment ring is rotated relative to the generally cylindrical valveaxis. This may help to mitigate unintended change in flow due to atranslated migration of a rotational translatable disk.

The rotatable translatable disk 50 d is keyed to the flow adjustmentring 62 d. The rotational threaded flange member 55 in the exemplaryconfiguration allows for a rotary adjustment of flow rather thanapplying a force to a linked lever member along, or parallel to agenerally cylindrical valve axis. This allows for finer and more precisecontrol of the flow in addition to a higher likelihood of a user beingmore conscious of flow rate and therefore more likely to conserve or useless water on average use. The example FIGS. 10 and 11 allow for arotational adjustment of flow control in a configuration that has notbeen available in state of the art planar disk mixing valves or faucets.Valve 10 d can be adapted to a proximate spout end, wall mounted or basemounted valve coupling. This approach also allows for numerous faucetconfiguration methods and styles including configurations to interfacesolenoid motors for other various applications where rotation in twoaxes, not requiring the interface of a lever arm, is convenient. FIG. 11shows a section view of an auto diverter exemplary valve utilizing arotary control flange.

Additional exemplary embodiments allowing for the elimination of asecond stationary disk, repositioning of the temperature control ring,opposing end outlets and automatically diverted outlets as was achievedwith the prior groove locus versions, are variants which may result inoutlet end, base or wall mounted couplings for use in faucets with therotary style interface. Also, flange member 55 can be alternatelyconfigured with a geared end so as to be interfaced with alternaterotational or gearing arrangements.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment. A valve 10H includes the similarcomponents as the valve 10A. A flow adjustment ring 62 h is configuredto include the central bore 42 h, end portion 29 h and the outlet port28 h operable to conduct the flow rate at which the water is allowed toflow through the body 12 h. The O-ring 95 seals the rotatabletranslatable disk 50 to the flow adjustment ring 62 h. The bearing 56 bprovides an optional lubricious interface between flow adjustment ring62 h and temperature adjustment ring 60 h. A bearing 56 h provides anoptional lubricious interface between the temperature adjustment ring 60h and the cap 14 h. Link 41 h is assembled to temperature adjustmentring 60 h with fulcrum pins 88 h. Flow adjustment ring 62 h receiveslink extensions 90 h in symmetrically placed receiving joints 45 h.Similar manipulation of the link 41 h allows for the independent controlof both temperature and flow. Rotational limit travel is provided byextensions 88 meeting with a stop feature (not shown) inside of theinterstitial space of the body 12 h. The valve 10 h can be adapted to aproximate spout end mounted valve coupling as shown in FIGS. 13-16.Other configuration, are also contemplated.

FIG. 13 shows coupling 100 h with a non-rotative extension coupling 77,having a rotational void 81, fasten-able to coupling 100 h. While linkinterface 79 is a rotative sleeve that engages link 41 h so as to couplepivotal control ring 33 h, modified with voids 49 for interface with anoperators thumb, finger or hand, so as to operate the valve in a handheld, fixed or docked position. Rotational sleeve 87 is placed aroundextension coupling 77 and the key 85 is keyed to link interface 79. Thepivotal control ring 33 h is keyed to key 85 and coupled by fastenersthat link the ring 33 h to the link 41 h for operative control of thevalve while optional grip 89 may be fastened to the end of extensioncoupling 77, this allows a user to hold grip 89, or the plain end ofextension coupling 77 and the exemplary configuration while allowing afinger or thumb to control the ring 33 h as with, the valve operation isadjusted by rotation about the generally cylindrical valve body ortranslation along or parallel to the generally cylindrical valve axis.

FIG. 14 illustrates a hand held, or single hand held single handle mixerwith independent control of both temperature and flow rate is achieved.Optional spray pattern button along the periphery of the hand heldconfiguration can interface an outlet end. In a variation, the maximumflow position of the control ring or other control means is utilized toactivate optional flow patterns, depending on which valve configurationis internal. Note that several of the valves disclosed herein areconfigurable to operate in numerous different faucet configurations,some of which are shown here. In addition, a valve configuration thatallows for a 90 degree exit direction relative to the generallycylindrical axis could be configured to be pulled up and out of anoptionally rotative counter mounted sleeve. Such an arrangement wouldnot require a similar extension coupling 77 of FIG. 13 and would allowthe user to hold a coupling end. All couplings could also be integratedto the bottom portions along with the inlet and optional outlet tubularmembers of various geometries, materials and configurations.

FIG. 15 shows a coupling with components to achieve minimalistappearance and function. FIG. 15 shows a rotatable translatable sleeve91 that captures distal end 47 h between extension 93 and extensions 96as similarly shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 17 illustrates another exemplary embodiment. A valve 10J includessimilar components as the valve 10 h. Rotatable translatable disk 50Jhas a flow through bore 64J and, in this configuration, an additionalpartial opening or void 65J that does not allow for flow through fluidcommunication in this exemplary embodiment. Rather, the void 65J isconfigured so that when the link 41J is manipulated to adjust flow inone direction the flow is selectively communicated with the outlet 61 a.Alternatively, bore 64J is configured so than when link 41J ismanipulated to adjust flow in another direction the flow is selectivelycommunicated with outlet port 28J to allow for flow through fluidcommunication from a first axially offset end to another axially offsetend.

FIG. 18 illustrates the flow from inlet 16 toward either selectablefluid path leading toward outlet 28J or 61 a dependant on the positionof the rotatable translatable disk 50J. FIG. 19 shows a tub spoutexemplary coupling sleeve configuration that captures distal end 47J ofexemplary valve 10J. FIG. 19 shows similar sleeve components as shown inFIGS. 15 and 16 in addition to a tub spout end cap. The exemplarycoupling with control sleeve configuration allows for selective flow,selective temperature and the selective operation of either a shower orother mounted or hand held fluid dispensing devise (not shown) utilizingoutlet 61 a or a tub spout utilizing outlet 28J, depending on whetherthe tub spout or sleeve arrangement is pushed or pulled along thegenerally cylindrical valve axis. Detent stops or interfering tabsindexing positions may be used to help the user position the valvecontrol in an off position. Rotation of the tub spout or faucet aboutthe generally cylindrical valve axis adjusts the temperature of the flowfor either selectable output mode. Other configuration, are alsocontemplated. One such example includes a selectable valve configurationthat allows for a single grip control where lifting a handle androtating the handle allows for typical faucet flow and temperaturecontrol. Alternately, a user utilizing a drinking vessel or cup to pressdown on the handle allows for the selective dispensing of filtered wateras can be dispensed from a filter configuration and spout above thehandle control or fluidly linked to the handle control. Thisconfiguration allows for a filter that is accessible to the user above acounter mounted position and yet the filter is not obstructively locatedproximate the spout end of the unfiltered spout end faucet. In addition,numerous forms of water treatment are possible with the selectableoutlet valve configuration options in other flow through valve designsas well. The exemplary embodiment of the selectable valve can beconfigured in other similar exemplary embodiments where a fluidtreatment is desired.

Flow through a valve with selectable paths may have the translation orvolume controlling throw positions divided into two or more index-ablepositions to allow for a user interface that provides response feel tothe user when pressing a handle down. Part of the response throw couldbe momentary and then transition into a fixed position of outflow. Thiscan be accomplished by use of indents with corresponding cavitieslocated in the interfacing parts in addition to other various methods.Use of a spring or incorporating geometry into a memory retainingpolymer would also suffice for such an application.

FIG. 20 illustrates another exemplary valve 10 k. Valve 10 k includessimilar components as the valve 10 h. The function of temperaturecontrol ring 60 h, the fulcrum pins 88 h and the link 41 h are unifiedin spherical shaped link 41 k. The link 41 k includes a spherical area102 that is spherically received by an internal spherical portion 103.Spherical area 102 includes dual slots 97. A spherical cut 98 interfaceswith a spherical portion 99 of the flow adjustment ring 62 k. Extensions88 k are received by slots 97 and may allow rotational adjustment of theflow adjustment ring 62 k and the rotating translating disk 50L.Translation of the flow adjustment ring 62 k may be achieved by thefixed spherical portion 103 engaging spherical portion 102 so thatspherical portion 99 causes translation due to engagement with sphericalcut portion 98 while spherical area 102 is spherically rotated withinthe internal spherical portion 103. The illustrated flow through versionof this valve can be configured without flow through function as well.Manipulation of link 41 k results in similar control of temperature andflow to the prior examples. The valve 10 k has fewer components thansimilar functioning prior art valves.

The approach of a sphere, namely the link 41 k within a sphericalhousing, namely the cap 14 k where the sphere link 41 k furtherinterfaces the spherical portion 99 of the ring 62 k where the spherelink 41 k has a spherical shaped void with rotationally functionalnotches or slots 97 that engage the extensions 88 k results in a controlapproach that can accommodate different functioning valveconfigurations.

FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary embodiment. A valve includessimilar components as the exemplary valve 10 h. In this embodiment, thefunction of temperature control ring 60 h, fulcrum pins 88 h and link 41h have been unified in shaped link 41L. The link 41L has dual sphericalextensions 88L along a symmetrically positioned shaft that may interfacewith a radial channel that captures spherical extensions 88L andfacilitate rotational manipulation of the flow control ring 62L. Theextensions 88 k are captured by a link retainer 56L. The illustratedflow through version of this valve can be configured without flowthrough function as well. Manipulation of the link 41 k results insimilar control of temperature and flow to prior examples. Valve 10L hasfewer components than similar functioning prior art planar disk mixingvalves. The approach of exemplary valve 10L results in a controlapproach that can accommodate different functioning valve configurationsincluding pivotal joy stick controlling of moveable mixing disks thatare moveable with 2 degrees of freedom.

It should be understood that while some of the exemplary valves areshown configured with the respective exemplary faucets, that the variousexemplary valves 10-10L and alternate exemplary embodiments shown orreferred to could also be substituted in place of many different faucetdesigns some of which are shown here. In addition, versions thatutilized the mechanical linkages shown here need not be flow throughvalves conducting fluid in one axially offset end portion toward and outof another axially offset end portion. Also, the axially offset endportions could have a plurality of selectable or non-selectable outletson either end portion. The various outlet ends could have various fluidtreatments and adaptable fittings to achieve various alternativeconfigurations.

For example a dual outlet, optionally hand held valve could have dualoutlets to facilitate separate or mixed optional spray patterns on dualoutlets at a single axially offset end portion. One such example of amodified version of valve 10J could be accommodated by isolating twoflow paths and outlets along bore 42J connecting with two separateopenings 64J and 65J respectively, where 65J has a material free openingportion that extends fully through disk 50J and thus connects fluid toone of the two isolated outlets along outlet bore 42J. A version of FIG.14 with a modified valve 10J configuration allows for two isolatedselectable paths at the flow through outlet end. Thus, optional spraypatterns could be achieved by tilting ring 33 h along either generallycylindrical axial direction. Yet another example would have dualselectable or non-selectable outlets on either axially offset endportion so as to utilize one or more of the dual outlets on an axiallyoffset end portion separately, proportionately or simultaneously. Aconfiguration with two isolated flow paths and outlets, or a single flowpath outlet along an outlet bore may be combined with, or interface witha diverter 59 or diverting means, the activation of which may beposition dependant with regard to a surrounding sleeve or area along aperiphery of such a dual path outlet bore. Alternate spray patterns maybe achieved by use of diverting means along a fixed outlet bore linkedto a user interface or activation mechanism. Also, the moveable disk andtemperature control ring in the exemplary valves with automatic divertercould be reconfigured and reverse positioned to allow for an inlet flowat what was the first outlet end capable of automatically diverting fromanother outlet path to a selectable outlet path or mix thereof. Inaddition, a modified version of valve 10J could be accommodated byisolating two flow paths and outlets along bore 42J connecting with twoseparate openings 64J and 65J respectively, where 65J has a materialfree opening portion that extends fully through disk 50J and thusconnects fluid from a newly designated inlet port 61 a to one of the twoisolated outlets along outlet bore 42J. Such a version of a modifiedvalve 10J configuration allows for two isolated paths at the flowthrough outlet end where one of the two outlets could dispense a thirdfluid or filtered water entering the valve at port 61 a. Similarly, themodified version of valve 10J could have the disk 50J with the modifiedand pass through opening portion of 65J configured to be selectivelyactivated by positioning opening 65J in a manner that wouldsymmetrically position 65J to look like the portion of 64J mirroredalong the opposite side of the valve section shown in FIG. 18. Such avalve with modified disk 50J would allow for the selective dispensing ofa third inlet fluid or filtered water through the second isolated pathalong a modified bore 42J. A non flow-through valve can also be utilizedto accommodate the appearance of many current styles and designs offaucets where a protruding portion with a handle emanating from suchvariously arranged protrusions are common place due to the limitationsof commonly used single grip planar disk mixing valves.

Bottom portions of the various valves 10-10L and numerous alternateexamples could be configured to be independently functional without needfor the various corresponding valve couplings as shown. Use ofover-molded integrated tubular members unified with bottom portions arealso contemplated. Also, an alternative end portion could integrate thefunctions of a stationary disk and end portion thus making such a diskoptional.

Various exemplary valves are flow through valves that accommodate an inline flow through path wherein the fluid enters through one end,traverses through the housing along a longitudinal direction through afull range of temperature and flow operation, and exits axially throughthe other end.

In addition, there are obvious additional parts that are used so as tominimize the number of required valve designs. Many of the parts can beeliminated where custom valves are adapted for specific faucet and valveconfigurations. It is the desire of this disclosure to try and limit thenumerous exemplary embodiments that it would take to show all such partreductions.

The exemplary valves can be configured to function as a valve thatrelies on a side translation for temperature adjustment (often referredto as pivotal ball operation or joystick control). This style does notrely on an axial rotation relative to the cylindrical axis of the valvebody in order to adjust temperature as is common in most single handleplanar disk mixing valves.

All of the valves, valve seats and valve configurations are intended foruse with optional materials and flexible supply lines, that may or maynot be optionally molded into a bottom portion of various materials, aswell as fixed copper supply lines or a combination thereof. The use offlexible supply lines in various configurations, all of which can havepivotal spouts as is common in kitchen faucets that require movement orlimited movement relative to a fixed mount is implied and optional inthe examples displayed or referred to. Other connection methods that donot require movement of the supply lines in order to rotate a spout arecommon and easily accommodated with commonly available components andmounting methods which are also alternately implied in the exemplaryembodiments displayed or referred to.

The use of pivoting, rotational attachments, which allow for a hose orfluid communicating member to rotate and translate freely in order toaccommodate certain exemplary valves in alternate valve and faucetconfigurations are contemplated. In addition, certain rigid or flexiblefluid carrying members in different geometric configurations, includingpartial or complete spiral shaped and or dual fluid carrying tubularmembers which conduct fluid, may have adequate properties to allow forrotation and translation; and the use of such components is intended inconfigurations where outlet fluid or supply fluid may be channeledthrough such members. There are numerous attachment or mounting methodsfor numerous attachments ranging from sonic welding, to threadedengagement and other commonly practices methods dependant on thematerials selected for the various interfacing components. Numerousattachments may also interface with one or more of a plurality ofoutlets that are possible at either end portion of the exemplary valvesshown, described or alternatively configurable. The openings in thestationary disks and moveable disks can be configured to be a pluralityof openings that may or may not all or in part be openings that are partof material free portions that pass all the way through the disks.Furthermore, those openings may or may not be alignable with adjacentdisks openings possibly dependent on positioning. Other configurationare contemplated.

Also, there are numerous possible combinations when comparing all thedifferent exemplary configurations, valves, valve positions,configuration styles with alternatively mounted valves for use in manydifferent faucets. All possible combinations and alternative positioningof features and components are claimed herein. Alternate valves can beconfigured to accommodate functions of the exemplary valves by usingsimilar components to achieve the desired functions of the differentexemplary valves. For example, the disk 50J in valve 10J and thealternate configurations of 50J could be configured to function withsimilar components to the valve 10 a. Other configuration arecontemplated.

The prior art single handle planar disk mixing valves with independentcontrol of both flow and temperature usually have flow rate losses dueto an approximately 180 degree change in flow direction when comparingthe direction a fluid enters such valves. Since an in line flow throughvalve has flow entering in one end and out an other end, the reduceddisruption of the flow may result in a higher flow rate relative to thevalve size.

Thus, in line flow through valves can be smaller in size and yieldcomparable flow to larger valves or provide valves that can be similarin size and yield larger flow.

The use of the exemplary valves described, referred to or alternativeconfigurations of such valves may be configured to function with waterfall or fountain style faucets including other faucets allowing forvarious fluid treatments. Fluid treatment refers to any desiredtreatment of fluid for a desired condition also including, flowcondition, aeration, spray pattern, flavor, filter, or use in or with anappliance or device.

The mechanisms for moving a first disk, that is moveable with 1 or 2degrees of freedom relative to a second disk, by way of a peripheral, atleast translating, linkage that is in communication with said first diskand said communication occurs beside a generally cylindricallongitudinal axis, can be used for other devices utilizing disk pairsthat can have inlets and or outlets on either end including radialoutlets. For example, mixers and diverters that are used in tub andshower configurations for selecting one of or various combinations ofvarious spray outlets can be configured with the various disclosedperipheral control mechanisms and variations thereof. Furthermore,diverting valves receiving a mixed flow can be proportionately divertedto a plurality of outlets or mix thereof by the mechanisms disclosedherein for moving disks relative to a fixed disk.

The above description of specific exemplary embodiments has been givenby way of example. From the disclosure given, those skilled in the artwill not only understand the general inventive concept and its attendantadvantages, but will also find apparent various changes andmodifications to the structures and methods disclosed. It is sought,therefore, to cover all such changes and modifications as fall withinthe spirit and scope of the general inventive concept, as definedherein, and equivalents thereof.

The invention is claimed to be:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a valve,comprising: an outlet end with at least one outlet; a flow adjustment; alink assembled to the flow adjustment, wherein the flow adjustmentincludes a receiving joint, the link includes a link extension, and thereceiving joint receives the link extension; a rotatable translatabledisk, including: a flow through bore configured so that when the link ismanipulated to adjust a flow in a first direction, the flow isselectively communicated with to allow for flow through fluidcommunication from a first axially offset end to a second axially offsetend where the second axially offset end has a disk outlet; and anopening configured so that when the link is manipulated to adjust a flowin a second different direction the flow is selectively communicatedwith the disk outlet; and a body, wherein the flow adjustment isconfigured to conduct flow of fluid through the body and the bodyincludes a stop feature disposed therein that limits a rotational travelof the link extension.
 2. An apparatus, comprising: a valve, comprising:an outlet end with at least one outlet; a flow adjustment; a linkassembled to the flow adjustment; a rotatable translatable disk,including: a flow through bore configured so that when the link ismanipulated to adjust a flow in a first direction the flow isselectively communicated with to allow for flow through fluidcommunication from a first axially offset end to a second axially offsetend where the second axially offset end has first disk outlet; and anopening configured so that when the link is manipulated to adjust a flowin a second different direction the flow is selectively communicatedwith a second disk outlet; and a temperature adjustment that includes afulcrum pin, wherein the link is asset bled to the temperatureadjustment with the fulcrum pin; and a body, wherein the flow adjustmentis configured to conduct flow of fluid ugh the body.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, further comprising: a cap located at an end of the valveopposing the outlet end with the body therebetween.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the outlet end includes a plurality of bores configuredto allow a fluid communication between the body and a pair of fluidsupply lines from a fluid source.
 5. The apparatus of claim 2, the valvefurther comprising: a bearing disposed between the temperatureadjustment and the cap.
 6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the linkallows for independent control of both temperature and flow.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the flow adjustment further includes acentral bore and an end portion.
 8. The apparatus of claim 2, whereinthe link includes a distal end, and further comprising: a tube spoutcoupling sleeve that engages the distal end.
 9. The apparatus of claim2, wherein the second axially offset end communicates with a fluidtreatment device.
 10. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first or thesecond axially offset end communicates with a fluid treatment device.11. The apparatus of claim 2, the valve further comprising: a bearingdisposed between the flow adjustment and the temperature adjustment. 12.The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the bearing provides a lubriciousinterface between the flow adjustment and the temperature adjustment.13. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the flow adjustment includes areceiving joint and the link includes a link extension, and thereceiving joint receives the link extension.
 14. The apparatus of claim13, wherein the body includes a stop feature disposed therein thatlimits a rotational travel of the link extension.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 2, the valve further comprising: an o-ring disposed between therotatable translatable disk and the flow adjustment.
 16. The apparatusof claim 15, wherein the o-ring seals the rotatable translatable disk tothe flow adjustment.
 17. A method, comprising: manipulating a linkassembled to a flow adjustment of a valve of an apparatus to adjust aflow through a flow bore of a rotatable translatable disk in a firstdirection wherein the flow is selectively communicated with to allow forflow through fluid communication from a first axially offset end to asecond axially offset end, which has a disk outlet, wherein the valvefurther includes a temperature adjustment with a fulcrum pin, whereinthe link is assembled to the temperature adjustment with the fulcrumpin, and the apparatus includes a body, wherein the flow adjustment isconfigured to conduct flow of fluid through the body; and manipulatingthe link to adjust a flow in a second different direction the flow isselectively communicated with the disk outlet through an opening of thevalve.